Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs) vs Range-Extended Electric Vehicles (REEVs)
Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs)
Key Features:
1. Powertrain: Combines an internal combustion engine with an electric motor, which can operate independently or in tandem.
2. Charging: Requires external charging and can also be charged by the internal combustion engine or regenerative braking.
3. Range: Offers a limited electric-only range, but the internal combustion engine extends the total range significantly.
4. Driving Experience: The driving experience can switch between pure electric and hybrid modes depending on driving modes and battery charge levels.
5. Environmental Impact: Emits zero emissions in pure electric mode, but the internal combustion engine produces emissions when in use.
6. Policy Incentives: Often eligible for new energy vehicle incentives such as purchase subsidies and free parking in many regions.
7. Cost-Effectiveness: Operating costs are low, especially for short urban commutes where electricity is the primary power source.
Typical PHEV models: BYD Song Plus DM-i, BYD Qin Plus DMi, BYD Seal U DMi, Geely Galaxy 7
Range-Extended Electric Vehicles (REEVs)
Key Features:
1. Powertrain: Primarily driven by an electric motor, with an internal combustion engine acting as a range extender that does not directly drive the wheels but generates electricity for the battery.
2. Charging: Requires external charging, and the internal combustion engine's primary function is to recharge the battery.
3. Range: Offers a longer electric-only range, and the range extender provides additional range when the battery is depleted.
4. Driving Experience: Provides a driving experience similar to that of a pure electric vehicle since it relies mainly on the electric motor for propulsion.
5. Environmental Impact: Emits zero emissions when the battery is sufficient, but the internal combustion engine produces emissions when it is running, typically at optimal efficiency.
6. Policy Incentives: In some regions, REEVs are also considered new energy vehicles and are eligible for policy incentives.
7. Cost-Effectiveness: Operating costs are relatively low, especially when the battery is fully charged, but costs are slightly higher when the internal combustion engine is generating power.
Typical REEV model: Li L7, AITO M7,Changan Deepl SL03
Comparison:
· Energy Efficiency: REEVs are more energy-efficient when the battery is fully charged because the internal combustion engine operates at its best efficiency. PHEVs may be more energy-efficient at medium to high speeds because they can use direct engine drive or parallel hybrid drive.
· Range Anxiety: REEVs have less range anxiety due to the presence of the range extender. PHEVs rely on the internal combustion engine after battery depletion, which may lead to range anxiety.
· Charging Dependence: Both require charging, but REEVs may be more dependent on it since the internal combustion engine does not directly power the vehicle.
· Purchase Cost: REEVs might have a slightly lower purchase cost due to their simpler structure, but this also depends on the specific model and configuration.
In summary, the choice between PHEVs and REEVs depends on individual needs, driving habits, charging convenience, and environmental considerations.